CLEMSON — A Clemson University horticulture science professor and renowned researcher in the area of turfgrass physiology, pathology and management will be honored with two top awards given by the Crop Science Society of America (CSSA) at its annual conference in Long Beach, California.

Bert McCarty received the Fred V. Grau Turfgrass Science Award and was named a CSSA Fellow. Both honors recognize McCarty’s contributions to turfgrass science and his impact on the turfgrass industry.

McCarty received the Grau Award based on the national and international impact of his research, teaching, extension and industry collaboration. He was chosen as a fellow for his overall professional achievements and service to the industry.

McCarty has published more than 110 scholarly journal articles and authored or co-authored nine books. His book “Best Golf Course Management Practices,” in its third edition, is the go-to resource for groundskeepers and turf management students. The book has been translated into several languages.

McCarty also co-authored “Weeds of Southern Turfgrass,” one of the most widely read extension publications in the United States with more than 50,000 copies sold.

McCarty’s book, “Diagnosing Turfgrass Problems: A Practical Guide,” won the 2012 Notable Document Award from the South Carolina State Library. The book, co-authored by Ralph W. White, illustrates the foundations of turf maintenance.

“The turfgrass industry, and golf in particular, is very fortunate to have Bert McCarty at Clemson University. It’s not often that someone recognized around the world for his research and expertise is so willing to visit a golf course superintendent in need,” said Tim Kreger, executive director of the Carolinas Golf Course Superintendents Association.

“I am honored and humbled to receive these awards from the Crop Science Society of America. I’m thankful to my mother who nurtured my interest in biology and my father who instilled in me the importance of education,” McCarty said.

McCarty credits Clemson and its turfgrass program as also having an important impact on South Carolina’s economy.

“There are over one million acres of lawns, 380 golf courses and countless sports fields in this state,” said McCarty. “The Grand Strand of South Carolina is the No. 2 golf destination in the country, so it is essential that we continue with research and development, finding better and safer practices and to continue to grow business related to the production and maintenance of turfgrass in South Carolina.”

The Crop Science Society of America (CSSA) is an international scientific society dedicated to the conservation and wise use of natural resources to produce food, feed, and fiber crops while maintaining and improving the environment.